OT job shadowing

I see I am not the only one with struggles trying to find a place to complete hours. This past summer I was offered to shadow 8 out of 40 hours with an OT who specializes in Lymphedema and then was referred to try hospitals. Additionally, when I requested a statement on letterhead for proof that I completed the 8 hours, the request was denied which was very disappointing. I was told to write my own statement and the therapist(s) will sign. One of the signatures might appear questionable based on having the appearance of a squiggle line, but the other signature is creditable because I have the therapist's business card to match the name. I hope I have better success as I continue this effort.

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I am sorry this is so frustrating for you. In my experience, many programs that recommend observation hours don't typically require proof of hours just that you can name locations/settings and number of hours observed. Unfortunately they way that medical systems are paid dictates that therapists prove productivity with patients so completing non-clinical paperwork tends to not be a priority. It is much easier for a clinician to read and sign a letter of proof of hours than to actually type one up and sign it. My suggestion would be to keep a file (either excel sheet or word doc) that allows you to record location, name of practitioner followed, date(s), and hours.

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I agree. I have shadows as a clinician at Duke and we have many papers we need our shadows to sign to protect confidentiality. It would make it much easier if you have your paperwork ready to go just like we do. The more streamlined it is for the clinician, the more time they can spend with you.

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